Every year around summer, it's hard to pass a weekend without a beer party somewhere that's just a drive away. Here's where you should be headed — and what to drink when you get there.By Evan S. Benn

West Coast Brew Fest

West Coast Brew Fest

May 21, Sacramento

The scenic, riverfront green space of Sacramento's Miller Park is the setting for the 12th annual West Coast Brew Fest, which takes place during this year's American Craft Beer Week. Brews from California, Oregon, and Washington are the main attraction, though breweries from other states will contribute to the more-than-120 taps that will be flowing. Better hope that Alaskan Brewing Co. returns this year with its world-class Smoked Porter, a perennial favorite among beer judges. Other beers to look for: Bear Republic Ryevalry and Firestone Walker Double Jack.

American Craft Beer Fest

American Craft Beer Fest

June 3-4, Boston

This weekend will be Boston vs. D.C. as the two pre-eminent East Coast beer festivals — American Craft Beer Fest and Savor (see next slide) — compete for beer enthusiasts' attention. Beantown's ACBF certainly has the edge in number of breweries represented (more than 100) and types of beers poured (more than 400). Try as many two-ounce samples as your liver will allow. Still want more? There's always the great local brews: Mayflower Porter and Cambridge Arquebus.